Wolwedans was honoured with the presence of world famous photographer and conservationist, Antonio Vizcaino. With more than 30 published books and innumerable projects to his name, the photographer has an impressive repertoire. The celebrated Mexican spent time at NamibRand Nature Reserve as part of the “Global Wild Lands Philanthropy” project. The initiative will see Vizcaino traveling the world in search of conservation areas, reserves and parks, which incorporate nature conservation and sustainable practices into the core of their operations. It goes without saying, the destinations are in pristine environmental condition; adding to their visual appeal as locations of exquisite beauty. Wolwedans was named one of the few choice locations to be included in the project.

The keen-eyed photographer hails from Mexico and honed his natural skill behind the lens at the International Centre of Photography in New York City, where he acquired his formal training. His hobbies include a love of traveling. When pressed to reveal his favourite destination in the world, he smiles and takes a moment to ponder. Clearly having seen so many noteworthy locations has left him with several options to consider. At length, after pointing out that the Namib Desert is quite unique in its vistas, the Latin American drew attention to three locations within South America. In no particular order, he named Baja California, Mexicana; Atacama Desert, Chile and Petagonia, Brazil among the places worth visiting for any serious nature photographer.

]]>http://www.wolwedans.com/blog/2015/02/06/nature-photographer-shoots-at-wolwedans/feed/0Drive into the New Year In Stylehttp://www.wolwedans.com/blog/2015/01/05/drive-into-the-new-year-in-style/
http://www.wolwedans.com/blog/2015/01/05/drive-into-the-new-year-in-style/#commentsMon, 05 Jan 2015 15:01:46 +0000janahttp://www.wolwedans.com/blog/?p=518Continue reading →]]>DISCOVER WHAT DRIVES YOU

Each year brings with it new opportunities for growth, reflection and recreation.

Porsche visited Wolwedans recently on a tour through Namibia. While in the Namib, the vehicles moved in a coordinated pattern, leaving a visible trail in their wake. Try as one might, it would be impossible to overlook Porsche at Wolwedans.

The German manufactured vehicles cruised across the desert plains with agility, elegance and grace. The group of cars was driven in sequence, exhibiting teamwork and precision that left observers in awe of the spectacle. Fine workmanship and attractive bodywork are the hallmarks of the brand. No detail is left to chance, rather much care, time and effort is invested into creating a product superior quality. Numerous international awards for “Highest Ranked Brand” bear testament to the fact.

After seeing this amazing feat unfold, one can but draw parallels to reality.

Often life equips us with the very tools we need to exist, achieve and be fulfilled in our lives. It takes single-minded purpose of thought, a plan and a willingness to take action, for tangible results to be obtained. With the New Year already upon us, let’s take stock of the past 365 days and determine to make 2015 a year worth remembering.

In partnership with the Millennium Challenge Account Namibia (MCA-N), four students from the Namibia Institute of Culinary Education (NICE) were able to participate in a cultural exchange programme at the Robert Wetzlar Berufskolleg (RWB) der Stadt Bonn.

After several weeks of anticipation, the girls were finally ready to begin their journey on 30 September 2014. They were whisked off to the Hosea Kutako International Airport by private shuttle and were heartily welcomed with garlands upon arrival in Frankfurt. None of the trainees had ever visited Germany before and all but one, had never traveled by air. Even the high-speed train trip to Cologne proved rather exhilarating. The entire experience was to be quite an adventure for our culinary ambassadors!

Representing the chefs department were Beauranzia Louw-Sauls (left), Hirodina Sangunji (second left) and Yvette Naris (far right). The Food and Beverage Services Department was represented by Nelao Ngondji (third from right). The four ladies were selected by their instructors based on demonstrated competence in their chosen field, passion for the trade and an ability to adapt to different environments. They are seen in the image above with the principal of the RWB college (second from right).

While in Germany, the girls attended classes at the Robert Wetzlar Breufskolleg (vocational training college); conducted a week of work observation at the KSI Hotel and had the privilege of visiting several sites of historical and/ or cultural significance. Floating on the river Rhine, strolling through Pützschens Markt and beholding the renowned “Kölner Dom” (Cologne Cathedral) are among the activities, which stand out as highlights for the culinary quartet. The ladies also showcased their own culture by dressing up in traditional attire to perform the “Nama Stap” and an Oshiwambo song for the benefit of their German counterparts.

Our girls had this to say:

“It was very interesting to see how a college abroad trains it students to becomequalified professionals”. Hirodina

“We realised that having the right equipment makes a bigdifference to the efficiency of a kitchen and it might even affect the taste of thefood. In Germany, the ovens and other kitchen implements seemed to work somuch more efficiently”. Yvette

“We also learnt that no matter where one works, it is veryimportant to cooperate with others in your working environment”. Nelao

“Thank you MCA‐N for making our trip possible! None of us had ever been toGermany before and the trip really opened our eyes to ‘the real world’ ”. Beauranzia

With a refreshing plunge pool, a spacious deck and a brand new luxury suite, visitors to the site can now enjoy a heightened experience of the camp.

The location comes complete with a personal chef and is perfect for couples seeking some seclusion. The camp can now host a maximum of 3 couples. For exclusive use of the camp, a minimal occupation fee will be requested.

Should you wish to make a booking, please feel free to contact our reservations team. The details are as follows: info@wolwedans.com

The VisionRetreat has been handcrafted for women with a burning desire to change their lives. Women who dream of living a life of fulfillment and meaning; who despite making several efforts to attain their goals, find themselves feeling tired, empty and disconnected.

]]>http://www.wolwedans.com/blog/2014/09/01/food-for-the-soul-visionretreat-wolwedans/feed/0Indigenous Desert Trackers Return To Historical Homelandhttp://www.wolwedans.com/blog/2014/08/22/indigenous-desert-trackers-return-to-historical-homeland/
http://www.wolwedans.com/blog/2014/08/22/indigenous-desert-trackers-return-to-historical-homeland/#commentsFri, 22 Aug 2014 14:31:12 +0000janahttp://www.wolwedans.com/blog/?p=473Continue reading →]]>For the first time in the history of the NamibRand Nature Reserve, visitors to Wolwedans are now able to experience a guided track through the world’s oldest desert with descendants of the prehistoric natives of the area. The excursion is of particular interest because the guides who conduct the activity are of Khwe heritage, an ethnic group which forms part of a nation of people who may sometimes be collectively referred to as “Bushmen” or “San”.

Known historically for their aptitude as skilled hunter-gatherers, the San have mastered the art of interpreting patterns in nature. Such patterns may include animal prints or tracks, elements of weather and changes in vegetation. As a consequence of their nomadic lifestyles, San people in Namibia have often fallen subject to ridicule, mistreatment, marginalization and in some cases ethnocide. Throughout the annals of history, their way of life, cultural heritage and even their language has come under threat. Encouraging cultural diversity and promoting the upliftment of all human beings regardless of their creed or race are values which Wolwedans holds dear.

The use of Khwe guides at Wolwedans is certainly a feat that the Team is very proud of. The initiative would not have been possible without the cooperation of the Traditional Environmental Knowledge and Outreach Academy (TEKOA), which strives to preserve indigenous knowledge about: traditional culture; the art of tracking and the medicinal value of selected flora or fauna.

By providing employment to the Khwe, entire families from a disadvantaged community are given an opportunity to become financially self-sufficient. The new activity is a testament to Wolwedans’ commitment to the upliftment of local communities whilst simultaneously adding value to each guest experience. Ultimately the development of community, culture, conservation and commerce is central to the Wolwedans Way.

With the latest issue of “The Look” magazine, readers can admire the distinct beauty of the NamibRand Nature Reserve. The pages are a collage of vivid colours, crafty layout, gorgeous models and an outstanding portrayal of the location. The magazine published images secured by Paul Kehl Zurich, the PKZ fashion house.

The fashion house visited Wolwedans in 2014 to take some exquisite shots of their fashion line. Identified by their production team as a scenic location of note, Wolwedans did not disappoint. With vast open spaces, piercing blue skies and mesmerizing multi-coloured dunes, the photographers had the perfect backdrop for an array of photographic exploits. The combination of skilled artists behind the camera, attractive personalities beyond the camera and magnificent landscapes surrounding the camera, resulted in an exceptional photo shoot with a uniquely Namibian flavour. watch the behind the scenes video

To view the eye-catching ensembles for yourself simply visit the PKZ webpage:

Wolwedans is pleased to announce the inauguration of the newly enhanced Private Camp. The improved facilities now offer guests an opportunity to bask in the exquisite surroundings whilst relaxing on an enlarged deck; or take a refreshing dip into the newly installed plunge pool on site. By far the most noteworthy addition to the Camp is the construction of an additional suite. The sprawling new chamber will serve as the master bedroom; spacious, tastefully decorated and conveniently located near both the pool and the deck.

Not only is the new suite visually appealing, but the structure complies with the Wolwedans blue print for building designs that have a low impact on the environment. In line with the Wolwedans way, the additions to Private Camp were constructed using poles, elevated wooden decks and roll-up canvas walls. The facility is entirely powered by solar energy. This combination of characteristics enable Private Camp to be fully functional, whilst causing little or no harm to the delicate Namib desert.

With the new chalet in place, Private Camp can now comfortably accommodate up to six individuals. Couples or groups wishing to secure the location exclusively will be requested to cover the minimal occupation fee. Guests are encouraged to contact our reservations desk for more information.

If you are interested in finding out more about Wolwedans Private Camp please click here

]]>http://www.wolwedans.com/blog/2014/07/28/new-suite-at-wolwedans-private-camp/feed/0Lucas & the Cheetahhttp://www.wolwedans.com/blog/2014/06/12/lucas-the-cheetah/
http://www.wolwedans.com/blog/2014/06/12/lucas-the-cheetah/#commentsThu, 12 Jun 2014 10:03:22 +0000janahttp://www.wolwedans.com/blog/?p=427Continue reading →]]>On the 22nd of April 2014, I went out with three other field guides to inspect the road to the dump site, about 1.5 km away from Wolwedans village, NamibRand Nature Reserve. This was around 17H15 in the evening, the colours were spectacular and the Barking Geckos were barking very loud, trying their best to attract females. To our surprise, we suddenly came across a very special sighting: one of the most rare and also endangered species of Namibia – the Cheetah!!!!

This is my first time ever to get this close to one of the most beautiful creatures in Africa. I took many pictures and every time I took a shot it felt like the very first shot, that is how excited I got! This elegant cat, with pretty spots, wonderful colours and amazing background, really gave us the opportunity to spend more then an hour observing him. He was stretching, yawning and strolling, but my favourite is this photo with the stunning vistas of NamibRand Nature Reserve in the background. This is one of the best sightings in my guiding field.

Photographed and compiled by Lucas Mbangu

Senior field guide @ Wolwedans.

]]>http://www.wolwedans.com/blog/2014/06/12/lucas-the-cheetah/feed/14C’s: Culture – Wolwedans Launches Namibian Music Videohttp://www.wolwedans.com/blog/2014/04/07/4cs-culture-wolwedans-launches-namibian-music-video/
http://www.wolwedans.com/blog/2014/04/07/4cs-culture-wolwedans-launches-namibian-music-video/#commentsMon, 07 Apr 2014 14:56:44 +0000janahttp://www.wolwedans.com/blog/?p=416Continue reading →]]>Last Thursday 3rd April saw the launch of the brand new Tonetic music video ‘Undefended’ at Nice Restaurant and Bar. The beautiful courtyard at Windhoek’s most contemporary social hub was packed to the brim with members of Windhoek’s Art Scene and Film Industry. The event started off with a few acoustic songs performed by Tonetic & Shishani, a captivating duo that is known for their harmonic voices.

Don Stevenson, Poet, prolific graphic designer and lecturer, then officially opened the event pointing out the importance of art offering different perspectives on reality. He took an excursion into the meaning of love highlighting the similarities of both love and art being of a transcendent quality and thus in an ever changing state of flux.

The song “Undefended”, which is essentially about love and loss, is a real humdinger and has already been getting a lot of local airplay. Jana Eleanor Brückner, Director and Producer for “Undefended” further delivered a short introduction to the video, in which she relayed the most important ingredient behind making it happen: “I have decided from the beginning that this video is a ‘no money production’- not to be mistaken with a ‘low budget production’, she said with a smile.

The magic captured in the video comes from the love that has been put into this – from all sides. It was all about the resources and expertise everyone could bring to the party. Talking about money would have taken something away from this….” Nonetheless ‘Undefended’ would not have been possible without the generous contribution by the NamibRand Nature Reserve and the Wolwedans Foundation, whose ‘in kind’ support of the logistics and access to one of the most visually spectacular places on this planet have made the project possible. The Wolwedans Foundation has previously been instrumental in the promotional of local musicians in the past years by co-sponsoring a number of Namibian Music Festivals.

As the background to the ‘Undefended’ Music Video Tonetic has published this statement on his Fan page: “A few years back I started an acoustic affair with Shishani, we’ve made quite a number of hemi-semi-demi-quavered babies since… (and) I’m super happy that she features as my musical mistress in the upcoming video for ‘Undefended’.

Of the Cinematography and editing of the ‘Undefended’ video he says: “The technical side was down to two ridiculously passionate and intelligent people, Liberty & Laurent from Endemic Productions. What I think of them is a bit beyond my vocabulary… it would be sinful of me not to work with them again… and again!” ’Undefended’ was recorded by Christian Poloni and Antonio Vilas at NBC Studios in Windhoek.

The video has already made ripples across the internet…enjoying over 3000 views on Vimeo in the first two days and close to 1500 views on Youtube….!